Degree theory for equivariant maps, the general 𝑆¹-action (Q4024285)

In an earlier work [Trans. Am. Math. Soc. 315, 433-510 (1989; Zbl 0695.58006)] the authors developed a degree theory for equivariant maps. The current volume under review is a continuation of that work. The degree studied is an element of the equivariant homotopy group of spheres. These groups are computed for the case of a general \(S^ 1\)- action. The earlier paper computed the groups when \(S^ 1\) acts semi- freely. The actual computation of the groups is a step-by-step process of extension. The degree has the properties of a typical degree theory and reduces to Leray-Schauder degree when the acting group is trivial. The authors have made the text relatively self-contained only assuming familiarity with elementary homotopy theory and Floquet theory in differential equations. Among the applications the authors cover the index of an isolated orbit, branching and Hopf bifurcation, period doubling and symmetry breaking for systems of autonomous differential equations. The chapter titles are: 1. Preliminaries, 2. Extensions of \(S^ 1\)-maps, 3. Homotopy groups of \(S^ 1\)-maps, 4. Degree of \(S^ 1\)-maps, 5. \(S^ 1\)-index of an isolated nonstationary orbit and applications, 6. Index of an isolated orbit of stationary solutions and applications, and 7. Virtual periods and orbit index. There is an index: Additivity up to one suspension.